Yellow Air Quality Warning Issued for Nicola Valley

Environment Canada has issued a yellow air quality warning for the City of Merritt and surrounding areas due to the wildfire smoke from the Boston Bar and Brunswick Creek wildfires that continue to burn out of control.

The agency says during wildfires, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.

The warning says exposure to smoke can affect your health so you are asked to consider postponing or reducing strenuous outdoor activities until the warning has ended.  It is also recommended to spend time indoors in a space with cleaner air.

The Boston Bar and Brunswick Creek Wildfire continues to grow after being discovered on July 2.  As of Wednesday, the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) has listed the two out=of-control wildfires combined at more than 19,600 hectares. There are currently 18 wildfires burning in British Columbia as of Thursday (July 9) with five listed as out-of-control.

Environment Canada warning that some people are more likely to be negatively impacted by smoke. This includes people with lung and heart conditions, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people aged 65 and older, and anyone whose health is affected by a chronic condition or acute illness.